Who Does That? Altar Guild
Welcome to a periodic new series designed to increase your knowledge about the various ministries and committees that keep St. John’s alive and active. If there is a ministry you would like to read more about, let us know.
This month, we welcome you to the world of the Altar Guild.
Altar Guild is the ministry which prepares the chancel for all services and sets up communion for all Eucharists, baptisms, and other services. Guild members prepare for services the day before, which is why everything is ready when you come into the nave. Our members also put things in order after the service, so everything is always ready for the next one. Guild members never work in front of the congregation.
The priest is the head of the Altar Guild and guides us in proper preparation.
No special training is required — only the desire to serve God in his church. One learns by working with others and reading available handbooks, which are available in the sacristy – the room containing God’s Holy hardware.
Guild members work in teams one month at a time, usually on Saturday morning and Sunday after Holy Eucharist. Attendance is important to ensure that the altar is prepared and for continuity of service. Occasionally there will be funerals, weddings, and other weekday services. However, one isn’t expected to miss work; others cover for these services.
Altar Guild members get to be both Mary and Martha. Because we set up ahead of time, unlike Martha, one gets to enjoy setting Christ’s table. And like Mary, we experience God’s Word in real time.
If this ministry interests you, please call the office so that I, or another Guild member, may answer any questions you may have. In addition, all are invited to come on Saturday morning to observe the Altar Guild at work. Please let us know ahead of time so we can let you in at the proper time.
We urgently need new members to continue our work. Pray about whether God is calling you to this ministry, and allow Him to guide His desires for you.
In God’s Love,
Karon Myers
